Newcomer to the municipal election race, Craig Rudd knows Maple Ridge can get better.
But the city isn’t as bad as some say it is.
“There are a lot of good things about Maple Ridge,” said Rudd, pointing out that’s why people are moving here.
Rudd, who owns a tire store in Coquitlam, is running because he says he has a passion for Maple Ridge and has lived here for more than 45 years.
Rudd coached minor hockey and softball, has served on non-profit organizations and is now the president of the B.C. Liberal Maple Ridge-Mission riding association. Marc Dalton is the sitting Liberal MLA for that riding.
“Having and keeping control of spending is key to affordable taxes. We need good value for every dollar spent. We need to be wise,” Rudd said.
He wants to improve Maple Ridge’s transportation system, including that for cars, transit and bicycles.
He also wants better roads leading to the downtown area.
“Downtown, on the weekend, is pretty chock a block. It’s hard to get around. I think we have room to improve on these kind of things.”
He’s glad that 128th Avenue is being widened next year, from 210th to 224th streets, and wants the widening of 240th Street sped up.
He also supports a big box shopping mall in Albion flats, saying that having major retailers in town can keep shopping dollars in the community.
“I own my own retail business. I’d love to a have a Costco … across the street. They’re a draw for people.”
Rudd wants to apply common sense to his duties as councillor, if elected.
“I want to build on the positives, work as a team.”